Student wellbeing in a digital age
Think about the last time you checked your phone. Was it a few minutes ago? Maybe even a few seconds ago?
For most students, phones, laptops and tablets are part of everyday life to the point they’re practically glued to our hands. We use them to study, message friends, watch videos and scroll through social media.
Technology makes student life easier in many ways. You can access lecture notes instantly, research assignments online and stay connected with friends.
But being constantly connected can also affect your wellbeing. Spending too much time online can impact sleep, concentration, eye health, and even how we feel about ourselves.
So how can students enjoy the benefits of technology without letting it take over their lives?
The reality of student screen time
Most students spend a large part of the day looking at screens. Online learning platforms, group chats, social media, streaming services and gaming can easily add up to several hours each day.
It often starts with something small such as checking a notification or watching a quick video. Before you know it, an hour has passed and you’re still scrolling.
Many students also use their phones late at night, which can make it harder to relax and fall asleep. Lack of sleep can lead to feeling tired, stressed and less focused during lessons or while studying.
We’re also spending long periods looking at screens without breaks, which increases strain on the eye muscles. When we use digital devices, our eyes have to work harder than when we read from paper. Screens often have glare, bright light and small text, which can make focusing more difficult.
Social media pressure
Social media can be a great way to connect with friends and share experiences. However, it can also create pressure.
When scrolling through social media, students often see highlights of other people’s lives, whether that’s holidays, achievements, perfect photos or exciting experiences. This can sometimes make people feel like they are falling behind or not doing enough.
It’s important to remember that social media rarely shows the full picture. Most people only post their best moments, not their everyday struggles.
When technology becomes a distraction
Digital devices are helpful for studying, but they can also make it difficult to focus.
Imagine sitting down to work on an assignment. You open your laptop, then a notification pops up. You check a message, which leads to checking social media, which leads to watching a few videos. Suddenly your ‘quick break’ turns into half an hour.
This happens to almost everyone – not just students. Constant notifications and apps are designed to grab our attention, making it harder to stay focused on important tasks.
But when you’re trying to revise or complete your coursework, procrastinating or being distracted by your phone can really impact your productivity and the content of your work. You might read it back and think ‘what am I on about, that doesn’t even make sense!’
It’s because your mind is probably elsewhere thinking about replying to a message or that TikTok you’ve just watched.
Digital wellbeing is not about avoiding the online world entirely. Instead, it is about finding a balance that allows you to benefit from technology while still protecting your mental, physical and emotional health.
Signs you might need a digital break
Sometimes it helps to step back and think about how technology is affecting your daily routine. You might benefit from a digital break if you:
- Check your phone constantly, even when studying
- Stay up late scrolling instead of sleeping
- Feel distracted when trying to focus on work
- Compare yourself to others online and feel worse afterwards
- Feel stressed or overwhelmed by notifications
- Feel anxious or uncomfortable without access to your device
Taking a break from screens doesn’t mean completely giving them up. It just means finding a healthier balance.
Simple ways to improve digital wellbeing
Small changes can make a big difference. Students can try a few simple strategies to build healthier digital habits.
Turn off unnecessary notifications
Not every app needs to alert you all the time. Reducing notifications can help you stay focused.
Create screen-free time
Try avoiding screens for at least 30-60 minutes before bed to improve sleep.
Take regular breaks from studying online
Step away from your device, stretch or go for a short walk. It’ll do your eyes, brain and body a world of good.
Set limits on social media use
Many phones now show how much time you spend on different apps. Seeing these numbers can help you decide if you want to reduce your screen time.
Spend time offline
Exercise, hobbies and spending time with friends in person can all improve wellbeing.
What wellbeing support is available at RNN Group?
If digital stress, anxiety, or pressure is affecting your wellbeing, you don’t have to face it alone. Even talking to a tutor or friend can make a big difference.
All of our College campuses offer wellbeing support services to help our students manage their stress, workload and mental health.
Our student support services are there to help if you’re feeling overwhelmed. You can access a range of wellbeing support services from counselling and mentoring to tailored advice and guidance to help you navigate any challenges.
These services will always be provided in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space.
Finding a healthy balance
Technology isn’t the enemy. It helps us learn, stay connected and access opportunities. The key is learning how to use it in a way that supports our wellbeing rather than harming it.
By setting boundaries with technology and taking regular breaks from screens, students can stay connected while still protecting their mental health.
Sometimes the best thing we can do for our wellbeing is simply put the phone down, step away from the screen and focus on the world around us.
Find out more about health and wellbeing support at Dearne Valley College.